Virginia moves forward on pipeline permits as other states pause

PIPELINES: Virginia’s DEQ says it does not plan to slow down the process for two proposed pipeline projects despite requests from state lawmakers, opposition from environmental groups, and delays imposed in West Virginia and North Carolina. (Richmond Times-Dispatch)

ALTERNATIVE FUEL: North Carolina advocates want the state to revoke a permit for a proposed biomass wood pellet facility, raising questions about climate benefits and local environmental impacts. (Southeast Energy News)

NET METERING: The Sierra Club in Arkansas says proposed changes in net metering could discourage customers who use solar power. (Arkansas Times)

UTILITIES: Florida Power & Light is being hit with a class action lawsuit over power outages from Hurricane Irma. (South Florida Business Journal, subscription)

OIL: A judge says the federal government does not have to pay for more of the cleanup of a 2013 oil spill on the Mississippi River. (Associated Press)

COMMENTARY:
• President Trump is using the EPA to prop up the coal industry, which “overlooks the blossoming of profitable and cleaner energy products simply because of Mr. Trump’s hollow showmanship before his campaign base.” (New York Times)• Not swayed by arguments, FERC approves just about every pipeline project it sees and is likely to approve the Mountain Valley Pipeline when it meets on Thursday. (Roanoke Times)
• Following Hurricanes Irma and Harvey, it should be clear that it’s time to talk about combating climate change and how to prepare for what it might bring. (News & Record)
• Florida needs policy changes to address the ongoing power struggle between large utilities and those who advocate for expanded use of solar power. (SaintPetersBlog)
• There are many troubling roadblocks nationwide to solar power, including in Florida, where customers can only purchase solar power from utilities. (CNBC)
• A recent climate change ruling for a proposed natural gas pipeline project could also be applied to the coal industry. (oil.com)